West Ham teenage sensation recalls failed time at Chelsea

DECLAN RICE was devastated when he was released by Chelsea but four years on he is rapidly turning into a Premier League star.

Declan Rice GETTY

Declan Rice has enjoyed a run in the West Ham defence

Rice on Thursday helped nullify Harry Kane, Dele Alli and co as grabbed a valuable point in a 1-1 draw away at Tottenham.

And the 18-year-old admits he is now probably the envy of his former academy team-mates as he establishes himself as a key member of West Ham’s back line.

"I was released by Chelsea at 14 years old," Rice recalled. "I remember it, a Tuesday night.

“On the Wednesday I was training with Fulham, five minutes from my house, and then on the Thursday I was training with West Ham.

"After one session at both clubs they both wanted me.

Declan Rice GETTY

Declan Rice has impressed in the West Ham defence

“When Chelsea let me go it was really deflating”

Declan Rice

“There was interest from other clubs as well but I made the switch to West Ham.

"I had to change house, change school, so it was a massive decision - and it's paid off.

"When Chelsea let me go it was really deflating.

“For me, as a youngster, it's all I ever knew - living 10 minutes from the training ground, going to loads of the games.

"It's one of those where you've just got to pick yourself up and go again.

"I think some of the boys at Chelsea might be thinking 'wow! Look at Dec doing well for West Ham'."